Running Wire From Existing Outlet

bgitler

I'm planning on connecting romex from an outlet to a switch that will power a ceiling fan. There are 2 studs between the outlet and the switch box. I unscrewed the outlet from the wall and saw that there are two knockouts being used. Would it be easiest to cutout the current outlet box to have the space and after running the wire to the switch install an old work box? Also, where should I cut the drywall. I was thinking I would need to cut it next to the switch box and where the wire will be making the first 90 degree turn after coming up from the outlet. Should that work? I'm trying to cut as few holes in my wall as possible.

Thanks for the advice!

MisterZ

All depends on how much access you have.
In some older homes you can gain access behind wooden baseboard to run wire.
If this room is above a basement you could drill up between the wall and fish the wires without cutting any sheetrock.
A right angle drill might work to drill thru the studs.
You could also cut out a rectangle section of drywall between the two studs for easiest access.
If you cut it neatly, it should go back without much fuss

There are other things to consider besides running wire.
Obviously this outlet feeds other devices, and as i understand, you want to use the power from this outlet to feed the switch.
You will need to determine which wire is the line in and which is the feeder.
When you find which wire is the source, twist it together with the new black wire and a pigtail.

You should also consider box fill limitations, wire size, and breaker amps.
If its 14awg on a 15amp breaker, youll probably be ok.

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